The persistent challenge of repairing wheel ruts on concrete pavements, particularly in regions prone to heavy snowfall and tire chain usage, has led to innovative solutions in the construction industry, writes the International Grooving & Grinding Association (IGGA). A collaborative project between ACME Concrete Paving Inc. and the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) successfully showcased the potential of calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) cement as a cost-effective and durable material for rut repair. The project, executed in the summer of 2023, focused on a 150-foot-long bridge deck near Rosalia, Washington, where wheel ruts up to 3/8 inches deep posed safety and maintenance concerns.
The primary challenge was selecting a repair material capable of withstanding harsh environmental conditions and high-impact wear from studded tires and tire chains. Rapid Set® UHPC Mortar by CTS Cement Manufacturing Corp., a CSA cement-based product, proved to be an ideal solution. This innovative mortar combines CSA cement, high-performance additives, and high-density aggregate, achieving impressive compressive strengths—8000 psi within four hours, 11,000 psi at 24 hours, and up to 17,000 psi at 28 days. Its quick setting time and ease of use allowed for rapid application, minimizing traffic disruptions and ensuring efficient repairs.
The repair process involved trial batching to confirm material suitability for the bridge’s slope. After surface preparation through shotblasting, the mortar was mixed with water and applied to the ruts using a roller screed. Wet burlap curing ensured optimal material performance, and diamond grinding performed within hours of application enhanced smoothness and driving experience. Early evaluations indicated excellent bond strength and wear resistance, comparable to traditional polyester polymer concrete (PPC) even after a winter season. Additionally, CSA cement’s lower carbon footprint aligned with sustainable construction practices, highlighting its environmental benefits.
The success of this rut repair project underscores the transformative potential of CSA cement in modern infrastructure maintenance. By extending the lifespan of repairs and reducing maintenance frequency, materials like Rapid Set UHPC Mortar offer both economic and environmental advantages. As transportation agencies increasingly adopt CSA cement-based solutions, innovations like this promise to pave the way for more resilient, sustainable roadways, setting a new standard for pavement maintenance practices.
Read more here: https://www.igga.net/_files/ugd/f9cc6e_8a01469f2fe34b57b88609ad003864ab.pdf?index=true